The Sampaguitas
Folk Songs from the Philippines & Beyond
Release date: October 5, 2023 Label: Little Village
Genre: World, Folk, Kundiman

The Sampaguita is the national flower of The Philippines and only fitting to describe the sweet sounds coming from the melded vocal textures and tight harmonies of Aireene Espiritu, Jenevieve Francisco, and Cristina Ibarra. In this mesmerizing debut, The Sampaguitas take listeners on a soul-stirring journey through a mosaic of emotions and cultures. 

Espiritu, Francisco, and Ibarra met in San Francisco and immediately connected over their shared ancestry and love of music. Their collaboration evolved organically, each bringing musical strengths into the fold. Using Filipino folk songs as a way for them to explore their cultural roots, they soon found that singing together unlocked a deep connection, not only to each other, but to audiences as well.

“We each come from different experiences and familiarity with the language. But getting to sing and learn Tagalog, it feels like stepping into a river that flows back to our ancestors. Singing these songs with my Sampaguita sisters is like creating our own connection to the country of our roots, and standing proudly in our Pinay heritage.”

Their voices take center stage throughout the album’s ten tracks. Playful renditions of traditional folk songs mix seamlessly alongside inventive arrangements of protest anthems, songs of love and home, and new originals. Their unique vocal chemistry is complemented by tasteful instrumentation from Espiritu that recalls her blues and folk pedigree, and guest solos from renowned jazz flutist John Calloway.

This exciting debut offering is a testament to the power of culture and connection and sets the stage for the captivating musical journey that lies ahead.